Florita Jimenez

Born in Aguas Buenas Puerto Rico, Florita's journey took her from the vibrant streets of the Bronx, New York, to the warmth of the Dominican Republic, then the suburbs of Monsey, New York, to the serene landscapes of Maryland, and finally to New Jersey. Her life was a tapestry of rich experiences and enduring relationships.

Florita's career spanned over two decades at Verizon, where she demonstrated her strength and leadership as a manager from 1968 to 1989. Her tenacity and fiery spirit were admired by all who knew her. She was a woman of strength, not just in her career, but in every aspect of her life. Florita never shied away from speaking her mind, and those who knew her were well acquainted with her forthright nature and her infectious laughter.

A mother of six, a grandmother of ten, and a great-grandmother to seventeen, Florita's legacy is a beautiful blend of love, resilience, and joy. She was the matriarch who held her family together with her unyielding spirit and boundless love.

In her retirement, Florita explored her artistic side, creating beautiful flower art and indulging in crafts that reflected her creativity and passion for beauty. She had a unique zest for life, often "making the car dance" to her favorite Spanish tunes, a quirk that brought smiles and laughter to those around her.

Florita's love for word search games was more than a pastime; it was a testament to her belief in keeping the mind sharp and active. Her dedication to this simple pleasure was a reflection of how she approached life - with focus, determination, and a touch of fun.

She found immense joy in cuddles and playtime with dogs, and the company of babies always brightened her day. Her last months were particularly enriched by the presence of her granddaughters and great-granddaughters, whose visits brought her immense happiness and laughter.

While we mourn the loss of Florita, we also celebrate her remarkable life. Her legacy of strength, love, and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. Florita's journey may have ended, but her story will be told for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to Florita, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit will always be with us, guiding and inspiring us every day.

Florita is survived by her loving family. Her children: Mildred Santamaria (German), Hilda Colon, Raul Ponce (Esther), Myrna Villanueva, Haydee Bateman (Paul), Frank Ponce (Katy). Her grandchildren: Jennifer Hiblum (Steven), Carmen Anita Santamaria, Jennifer Ponce, Frances Ponce, Gabriel Ponce-Vega (Raquel), Julia Vicidomini (Marc), Vanessa Ponce, Christopher Ponce, Louis Colòn, Ana Ponce. And her great-grandchildren: Dylan Hiblum, Alex Jackson, Jennifer Rivera, Destiny Ponce, Heriberto Raul Valentín, Anastasia Valentín, Frances Adelina Valentín, Vanessa Ponce-Vega, Gabriel Ponce-Vega, Aiden Ponce-Vega, Christopher Davis, Nicholas Vicidomini, Sofia Vicidomini, Vanessa García, Jaden García, Brandon Ponce, Xiara Ponce.